Perhaps when our government officials (nationwide) start walking the walk and talking the talk, the example they set will positively influence the rest of the country to doing more, using less and living more consciously. That’s why I would like to ask the presidential candidates the following two questions:

• When will all US government employees (including the president) be required to drive a hybrid or energy fuel efficient car or limo?
• When will the US government enforce within their day to day work week the guidelines for Energy Star @ Work released by the EPA last month?

Some of the suggestions included in the EPA guidelines:

• Replace the bulbs in desk lamps with Energy Star qualified compact fluorescent light bulbs. These light bulbs use about 75 percent less energy than incandescent bulbs and last up to 10 times longer. Energy Star qualified lamps and light fixtures also are available for even more energy savings.
• Use a power strip as a central "turn off" point when you are done using office equipment to completely disconnect the power supply. Even when turned off, electronic and IT equipment often use a small amount of electricity when plugged in.
• Remember to turn off your lights when leaving conference rooms and your work space, especially at the end of the day.
• Use Energy Star qualified battery chargers or power adapters which, on average, use 30 to 35 percent less energy than conventional models. Don't forget to unplug battery chargers or power adapters when equipment is fully charged or disconnected from the charger.
• Get involved! Create a Green Team with your co-workers, help reduce office waste, and set a goal to earn the Energy Star label for your building.)

Source: EPA Press Release Sept 2008

What would you ask the presidential candidates?